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FairChanges is a venue where all users are committed so that human rights are observed, and create a model of healthy and sustainable consumption.

FairChanges has no control over the universe and therefore we cannot control every single listing. We set the policies, and the users play an active role in monitoring the accuracy and quality of the items.

FairChanges doesn’t buy, or sell, or transport or store the items. It is a marketplace without the middleman.

Here you’ll find some tips to make your FairChanges experience as pleasant as possible. Let’s make a difference!

You may not use the word "FairChanges" or similar ones (Fair Changes, Fair-Changes, Fair_Changes, FCH…) in your username without permission. See FCH Trademark Policy.

You must be at least 18 years of age to hold an account on FairChanges. When using FairChanges, those under 18 must, at all times, have the permission and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age. That adult is responsible for the account. Also, those under 18 may not utilize the FCH community features (Forums, Blog, events, etc.) unless otherwise specified by FairChanges.

You may not transfer ownership or sell your FCH account to another party.

You may not use the public areas of your account to demonstrate or discuss disputes with others or with FairChanges. FairChanges encourages all members to resolve their own disputes. As a venue, FairChanges cannot mediate disputes between members or other parties.

You may not use mature, profane or racist language or images in the public areas of your account (for example: About the shop page, shop announcement, username, avatar, profile…).

You may not use FairChanges to direct shoppers to another online selling venue to purchase the same items as listed in your FairChanges shop, as this may constitute fee avoidance. This includes posting links/URLs or providing information sufficient to locate the other online venue(s). A FCH account may not be used for the purpose of redirecting traffic to another web location. This includes shops in Vacation Mode.

Keep your account information updated and accurate. Your account must have a valid email address at all times. FairChanges will use the email address on file in your account information to contact you when necessary.

Members who do not comply with FairChanges' policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. This includes all of your accounts by virtue of association. In other words, FairChanges reserves the right to suspend the use of the site for a person and all username(s) he(s)he operates under. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Multiple accounts held by one person

Having more than one account ("multiple accounts" or "alternate accounts") is not recommendable. If you create several accounts and you change your mind later, you will not be able to transfer information (for example: listings, feedback, favorites or purchase history) from one account to another.

If you have one account, all your transactions (CHANGES) and feedback will be together and will make your profile look more interesting. Furthermore, the more different listings your shop has, the more users will find you when looking for different items, and they’ll be able to save on shipping by purchasing different items. To organize your shop you’ll be able to divide it into sections.

If you still want to have more than one account, please take into account:

• All of your usernames must be clearly disclosed in the Public Profile for each account. A statement such as, "I am also on FairChanges under these usernames..." would be acceptable. This includes all buying and selling accounts, as well as any collective accounts in which you are involved.

• You may not list the same unique item in more than one shop on FairChanges.

• You may not use an alternate account to purchase items from yourself. This is called "shilling."

FairChanges will not issue refunds or credits for accidental activity stemming from multiple account ownership (for example: listing items in the wrong shop).

Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. This includes all of your accounts by virtue of association. In other words, FairChanges reserves the right to suspend the use of the site for a person and all username(s) he(s)he operates under. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Collective shops

An account that involves more than one person is called collective account. FairChanges is a marketplace where individuals, companies, NGOs, groups at risk of exclusion, occupational workshops… can sell products in a responsible and ethic way. These are some examples of collective shops:

Collaboration Shop: The users combine their skills to make and list handmade products in a FairChanges shop. For example: A user waves a fabric and another user creates a clothing from the fabric. The finished product is listed in a collective FCH shop.

Shop with Help: Someone helps a friend or family member in the same household or shared physical space manage their FairChanges account. For example:

A person helps a friend or family member list or ship an item. The item is listed in their collective FairChanges shop.

With permission and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age, a minor and an adult have a FairChanges shop together. Per FairChanges Membership policies, the adult is responsible for the account.

Shared Shop: Multiple people who know each other use a single FairChanges account to post their own separate items in one shared shop. For example: Two friends make cakes and sell them in the same FCH shop. Friends, a shoemaker and a tailor, share a collective FairChanges shop to sell their work together.

If your shop is collective, you must comply with all of FairChanges’ policies, including these additional policies specifically for collectives:

Because of the laws concerning charitable fundraising, a charitable collective shop must comply with FairChanges Charitable listings and shops policies.

To maximize the level of reliability of buyers towards sellers, FairChanges recommends that the shop's About page fully discloses accurate information about each person, their role in the FairChanges shop and the relationships between the members of the collective.

The individual who registers the account is responsible for all activities of the account, the bill and any transactions. This includes participation in community features of the site.

All standard listing policies (see Shops and Listings) apply to collective FairChanges shops. All handmade items must be created by members of the collective.

Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. This includes all of your accounts by virtue of association. In other words, FairChanges reserves the right to suspend the use of the site for a person and all username(s) he(s)he operates under. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

If any of the FairChanges’ policies are violated by a member of a collective, all accounts registered to members of the collective are subject to suspension of privileges and/or account termination. FairChanges will not mediate disputes between individuals within a collective.

Conversations

The Conversations are a kind of emails within FCH that allow you to communicate privately with other FairChanges members about transactions, seek advice or discuss FCH Groups activities.

Please use common sense when giving out personal information to others via Conversations.

Don’t use Conversations to send unsolicited advertising or promotions, requests for donations or "spam." If someone marks your shop or listings as favorite, that doesn’t mean that this person wants to receive messages.

You must not use Conversations to knowingly harass or abuse another member. If someone explicitly tells you not to contact them, you must not use Conversations to contact them again, unless involved in an open transaction.

You must not use Conversations to interfere with a transaction.

You must not contact another member to buy or sell an item listed on FairChanges outside of FairChanges marketplace. This may constitute fee avoidance.

You must not communicate with a member involved in an active or completed transaction to warn the member away from a particular buyer, seller or item.

Sending too many messages too quickly may auto-disable your Conversations. You must contact us to have your ability to send Conversations reinstated. Misuse of Conversations may result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination of your FairChanges account(s). Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Transactions

When shopping FairChanges, you are entering into a transaction with an independent shop, facilitated by FCH.

A transaction is created when a buyer completes the Checkout process on FairChanges. Both the buyer and the seller are sent an email from FairChanges about the order and a receipt record in their FCH account. A transaction is considered complete after the buyer has submitted payment and the seller has shipped the item to the buyer.

FairChanges is a global marketplace with some shops and listings available in various languages. A seller that creates listings in a certain language should be able to conduct business (for example: accurately describe the item, complete the transaction and provide customer service to the buyer) in that language.

FairChanges aims to keep the shopping experience homogeneous and consistent across the marketplace, however, since each shop is an independent business, there may be some differences between shops. Each shop may have their own specific policies for things like returns, exchanges and custom orders. These shop policies may not conflict with FCH site-wide policies. Additionally, please take note that third-party services may be involved in a transaction (for example: PayPal, shipping services…), and these other services may have different policies regarding transactions or use of their services.

Tips for shoppers

Seller protection program

FairChanges offers a Seller Protection Program to guarantees that your seller account status will not be affected in the event a buyer reports a problem with a transaction (see Transaction concerns or disputes). To qualify for it you must:

Communicate with the buyer via Conversations and respond within 7 calendar days.

Respond to FairChanges requests for more information about a dispute case within 7 calendar days.

Provide a date by which the item(s) will be shipped (also referred to as processing time or ships-by date) using the tools provided by FairChanges, and ship the item(s) accordingly.

Ship to the address listed on the FairChanges receipt, or as agreed upon with the buyer via Conversations.

Accurately mark the order as “shipped” on FairChanges.

Provide proof of shipping and, if applicable, a tracking number.

For an item priced above 100€, use a trackable shipping method that provides signature confirmation at delivery and tracking number.

Coverage restrictions of the Seller Protection Program:

Applicable only for non-delivery or item not as described cases filed by the buyer through FairChanges tools on any eligible FairChanges transaction, or unauthorized payment cases specific to direct checkout FairChanges transactions. (See Transaction concerns or disputes).

Fund protection for direct checkout transactions is limited to $1000 USD per transaction.

For direct checkout transactions, the Item(s) must be shipped to one of the following countries: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and USA.

Not available for transactions involving digital goods or other items delivered electronically.

Not available for items that are not shipped (for example: in-person delivery, workshops and classes).

Not available for sellers with current or past accounts found to be in violation of FairChanges’ policies, or sellers with current or past accounts suspended or terminated for violating FairChanges’ policies.

Participation in the Seller Protection Program is optional. Following all of the above requirements to qualify for Seller Protection will help create a smooth transaction overall, and in the event a buyer files a dispute case, your shop status will be protected.

It’s possible for a dispute to be resolved favorably even without Seller Protection, but all sellers should be aware that not participating in Seller Protection may put your shop at risk in the event of a dispute.

Transaction concerns or disputes

FairChanges is a reference for ethic consume and, accordingly, we hope that your experience as user is pleasant and hassle-free.

In the event of a problem with a transaction, FairChanges encourages the buyer and seller to resolve the situation through the FairChanges Conversations, and by submitting fair, transparent and honest feedback (see Feedback). If a situation cannot be resolved directly between the buyer and seller, then you may opt to use the processes FairChanges provides to determine a resolution.

There are two types of disputes that a buyer can report if there is an unresolved problem with a transaction: an item that did not arrive (also referred to as a “non-delivery” case), or an item received that does not match the description (also referred to as an “item not as described” case).

A buyer has a limited timeframe in which to report a problem and open a dispute case:

If the seller stated a ships-by date using the tools provided by FairChanges, then the dispute timeframe is relative to that date. The buyer may open a case after the ships-by date or after the seller marked the order as shipped, whichever is sooner. The option to report the problem is available for 45 days.

If no ships-by date was specified using the tools provided by FairChanges, the buyer may report the problem no sooner than 7 days and no later than 75 days after the transaction date.

FairChanges also has various policies to help sellers with problematic transactions, including: non-payment, transaction cancellation, refusal of service to a specific buyer and transaction interference (see more detail below).

Non-delivery

A non-delivery situation arises when a buyer placed an order and submitted payment, but then did not receive the item. FairChanges encourages a buyer to first contact the seller via Conversations to try and work out the issue. If this is unsuccessful, the buyer may report that the item has not arrived and open a non-delivery case within the applicable time frame (see Transaction concerns or disputes). Often the case process enables the buyer and seller to resolve the matter directly. Unresolved cases escalate for review and resolution by FairChanges.

Please note: a buyer who paid via PayPal may have a limited time frame in which to file a claim for refund of purchase under PayPal's policies; that process is separate from FairChanges dispute process.

The seller must ship the items as specified by the ships-by date set using the tools provided by FairChanges, or within a reasonable amount of time.

Once a FairChanges non-delivery case has been opened by the buyer, the buyer and seller must use the case system to communicate about the transaction.

A case may be closed after the buyer and seller reached a resolution agreement, or the item was delivered, or the seller issued a full refund, or if the transaction qualified for the Seller Protection Program.

If a case remains unresolved, it will be escalated for review and resolution by FairChanges. Both parties must abide FairChanges decision.

If a case is escalated to FairChanges, the seller may be asked to provide FairChanges with additional information to help resolve the dispute, such as proof of shipping, delivery and/or refund.

If the seller does not qualify for Seller Protection, then FairChanges may issue a refund to the buyer from the seller's account to resolve the dispute. If there are insufficient funds available in it, FairChanges may charge the payment source on file for the seller to cover the refund.

A seller who fails to ship an item, respond to a non-delivery case or settle a disputed transaction in a reasonable manner may be suspended. Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Item not as described

In the event the buyer received a product that is significantly different from the original listing, the buyer should first contact the seller via Conversations to try and work out the issue. If this is unsuccessful, the buyer may open an Item not as described case within the applicable time frame (see Transaction concerns or disputes). Often the case process enables the buyer and seller to resolve the matter directly. Unresolved cases will escalate for review and resolution by FairChanges.

Please note: a buyer who paid via PayPal may have a limited time frame in which to file a claim for refund of purchase under PayPal's policies; that process is separate from FairChanges dispute process.

The seller must accurately describe the item in the listing (see FCH Criteria). For custom orders, the seller and buyer should agree about details via Conversations.

The seller must comply with the transaction agreement or according to the terms in the seller's shop policies.

Once an Item not as described case has been opened by the buyer on FairChanges, the buyer and seller must use the case system to communicate about the transaction.

A case may be closed after the buyer and seller reached a resolution agreement, or the seller issued a full refund, or if the transaction qualified for the Seller Protection Program.

If a case remains unresolved, it will be escalated for review and resolution by FairChanges. Both parties must abide FairChanges decision.

If a case is escalated to FairChanges, both buyer and seller may be asked to provide FairChanges with additional information to help resolve the dispute, such as photographs of the item.

If the seller does not qualify for Seller Protection, then FairChanges may issue a refund to the buyer from the seller's account to resolve the dispute. If there are insufficient funds available in it, FairChanges may charge the payment source on file for the seller to cover the refund.

A seller who ships an item that doesn’t match the listing, fails to respond to a case or settle a disputed transaction in a reasonable manner may be suspended. Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Buyers with a low overall feedback score or those who routinely do not pay for orders may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Refusing service

As a reference for fair and ethic trade, FairChanges encourages sellers to engage in clear and consistent communication, consider customer service best practices and honor transaction agreements. However, if a seller cannot complete a transaction due to an extraordinary circumstance, then the seller may refuse service to the buyer.

The seller must notify the buyer of refusal of service through FCH Conversations.

The seller can only refuse service prior to shipping.

If the buyer has already paid, then the seller must issue a full refund to the buyer (price paid for item plus shipping).

The seller may cancel the transaction when applicable (see Transaction cancellation).

Unless otherwise agreed or according to the seller's terms, a seller's refusal of service to a specific buyer is indefinite within that seller's FairChanges shop.

Members who abuse the privilege to refuse service may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Interference

To ensure the integrity of FairChanges’ marketplace and help protect members from potentially fraudulent activity, transaction interference is not allowed on FairChanges.

You may not contact another member to buy or sell an item listed on FairChanges outside of FairChanges’ marketplace. This may also constitute fee avoidance.

You may not communicate (by FairChanges Conversations, in FCH Community spaces, comments, etc.) with another member to warn the member away from a particular buyer, seller or item.

Posting in the public areas of your account (for example: Shop Announcement, Profile, listings), or in public comments to demonstrate or discuss a dispute with others or with FairChanges may be considered a form of interference.

Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Transaction cancellation

Sellers agree to complete valid transactions. On occasion, a seller may need to cancel an invalid or void transaction, as defined below. Only the seller in a transaction may cancel the transaction. When applicable, FairChanges will issue a credit to the seller for fees related to a cancelled transaction. Sellers are encouraged to keep proof of any refunds provided to buyers in the event a dispute arises over a cancellation.

If a buyer would like to cancel an order, the buyer should contact the seller by FCH Conversations to request cancellation. Cancellations may be subject to an individual seller’s shop policies and whether the item has shipped. Item returns are subject to the individual seller's shop policies. The buyer needs to contact the seller for approval prior to shipping an item back to the seller.

The seller may not cancel a transaction for the purpose of avoiding fees or feedback. The seller may just cancel an invalid or void transaction, as defined by these circumstances:

The buyer did not pay (see Non-payment) at the time the transaction was created, according to the transaction agreement or according to the terms in the seller's shop policies.

The buyer paid, but both buyer and seller agree to cancel the transaction prior to shipment. The seller must refund the buyer (price paid for item plus shipping).

The buyer paid, but the seller refuses service to the buyer (see Refusing service). The seller must refund the buyer (price paid for item plus shipping).

The buyer paid, but although the seller shipped the items, the buyer did not receive them. The seller must refund the buyer (price paid for item at minimum).

The buyer paid, the seller shipped the item, and the buyer received the item. Then the buyer and seller agreed the buyer can return the item to the seller for a refund. The seller must refund the buyer (price paid for item at minimum).

Members who abuse the privilege to cancel transactions may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Feedback

Feedback is a way to establish a reputation of trust for buyers, sellers and the FairChanges marketplace.

Every transaction in FairChanges adds a change (1 CHANGE) to the profile of the buyer and the seller. For every transaction, the buyer and seller have the opportunity to submit a rating (positive, neutral or negative), an optional comment and an optional customer appreciation photo. Both buyer and seller have the opportunity to submit feedback for up to 120 days after the date of the transaction or until the transaction is canceled by the seller (for void or invalid transactions). The feedback system is based on consistency, fairness and honesty. Feedback directly affects a member's reputation, so members of a Community as FairChanges must submit them in an ethic and responsible way.

Positive-rated feedback (including the optional comment and Customer Appreciation Photo) cannot be edited or removed after submission except in the circumstances noted in this Policy.

Negative- or neutral-rated feedback may be changed to a positive rating when both parties agree using the Try to improve feature that appears below the particular feedback entry.

Try to improve is not available for canceled transactions. Negative or neutral feedback for a canceled transaction may be removed if the author of the feedback contacts FairChanges.

120 days after the transaction, the option to leave feedback expires, and it cannot be reinstated.

The option to leave feedback for a canceled transaction cannot be reinstated.

Members may ask FairChanges to review feedback for removal by contacting FairChanges. FairChanges does not investigate the validity of opinions or statements made in feedback or mediate feedback disputes. At FairChanges’ discretion and without notice to both parties involved, feedback may be removed or altered by FairChanges in the following circumstances:

The member who submitted a negative or neutral feedback rating requests removal when the Try to improve feature is not available.

Shilling is evident (fraudulent inflation of feedback rating by use of an alternate account).

Feedback is given for a transaction created for the sole purpose of leaving feedback.

Negative or neutral feedback was mistakenly submitted for a different transaction.

Negative or neutral feedback refers to an unrelated transaction.

Positive feedback obtained using the Kiss and Make Up feature contains negative comments or images.

Negative or neutral feedback comments about using FairChanges or other services (for example: payment processors).

A member is confused about how to use the Feedback system, resulting in unintended negative or neutral feedback.

FairChanges is provided with a valid court order requesting removal of feedback.

Members with low overall feedback scores or members who have violated the above policies for feedback may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

FairChanges criteria

The act of consuming involves collaborating in the economic, environmental and social processes that enable the product. We make a difference when we choose those with less negative impact. FairChanges provides a marketplace venue for producers committed to ethics, health, justice and sustainability.

It is essential that all items listed on FairChanges are:

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY ITEMS

ITEMS WITHOUT THE MIDDLEMAN

ITEMS WITHOUT SLAVERY OR CHILD LABOR

There are also some additional criteria that are not mandatory, but allow items that comply with them, be identified and filtered so:

Environmentally friendly items

Every single product listed on FairChanges must have a minimal environmental impact, taking into account the production, transportation, distribution, consume and residue processes.

This must also be taken into account when wrapping up the items, reusing materials imaginatively and avoiding those pollutants. The ones preferred must be compostable, biodegradable or, in any case, recyclable.

In addition, items with Local pickup option, Ecological, From sustainable terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and Recycled may be identified so if they meet the corresponding policies.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Items without the middleman

In FairChanges the producer and the seller must be the same. Reselling is not permitted.

The producer’s task mustn’t be just assembling. He(s)he has to produce the item or, at least make a substantial change in it.

In the case of items created by the seller from raw materials produced by non-members of the shop, the seller must look for Environmentally friendly and Without slavery or child labor materials.

One of the ways to guarantee that easily is buying the raw materials within FairChanges.

Only small external operations in the production process may be acceptable, such as print an original artwork from a vendor. Also, an assistant, under the direct supervision of the seller, may help with a part of the process of creation, post an article in the shop, conduct shipping, contacting buyers, conducting account management or charge maintaining the store.

Also, an assistant under the direct supervision of the seller may: assist with a portion of the creation process, list items in a shop, ship items, communicate with buyers, accounting or other record keeping.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Items without slavery or child labor

"Child labor has serious consequences that stay with the individual and with society for far longer than the years of childhood. Young workers not only face dangerous working conditions. They face long term physical, intellectual and emotional stress. They face an adulthood of unemployment and illiteracy."
Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations

On FairChanges we are all committed to observe the Universal Declaration of Human Rights along the entire supply chain. The items listed on FairChanges must have been produced without slavery or child labor. This includes raw materials.

In the case of items made from raw materials from third parties, if they involve a long chain of producers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers, it may be difficult to certify whether it has been produced using slavery or child labor or not. Here are some ways to ensure that:

• Look for the Fair Trade trademark.

• Or write a letter to the head office of the manufacturer of your raw material and ask about the steps taken to identify, prevent and eradicate slavery and child labor in their supply chain. Ask if the company is a member of the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI), and in which way it takes part of it.

• Or purchase the raw materials on FairChanges. This way, you’ll be sure that these policies are observed.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Handmade items

Handmade items must be created by the seller operating the FairChanges shop or a member of that shop that appears on the shop’s About page.

To be considered Handmade, an item must be entirely made by the shop or substantially altered from its original condition. In this last case, it can also be labeled as Recycled.

Restoring, tailoring, assembling or re-packaging is not considered Handmade.

Selling commercial or mass-produced items under Handmade is not permitted.

Reselling is not permitted. FairChanges is a marketplace without the middleman.

All items in the Handmade category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies. Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Recycled items

The basis or raw material of a Recycled item must be a waste, which is substantially changed into a new item. This not only reduces waste, bringing them back again into the lifecycle, but preserves natural resources from its depletion.

• Simply tailoring, restoring or repairing an item is not considered recycled.

All items in the Recycled category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies. Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Km 0 items

The concept Km0 refers to the distance from the place of production until the items reach the consumer. Km0 items favor the consumption of proximity and the local development, as they enable local pickup in one or more places, where the buyer can go and pick the items up, saving shipping costs and reducing the environmental impact or ecological footprint.

• The seller of a Km0 item must specify in its listing at least one local pickup address.

• The seller must comply with the timetables and conditions established in the listing.

• In the event the buyer approaches the address following the timetables and conditions, but the pickup is not feasible, the seller must ship the items affected in the shortest time and at no cost to the buyer.

All items in the Km0 category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies. Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Certified items from substainable terrestrial and aquatic exosystems

Items from sustainable aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems are those that involve sustainable exploitation of resources below its limits of renewal. This aimed to meet the needs of the present generation without preventing future generations from doing so. FairChanges only accepts in this category items with the official corresponding certification.

• The seller of these items is required to upload one or more certificates in effect and obtained in the official way for the item. It is not permitted to associate a certificate to an item to which the certificate doesn’t refer.

All items in the From sustainable aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies. Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Integrator of groups at risk of social exclusion items

Social exclusion implies that, by their social status, certain groups of people are excluded from a full participation in the economic, social and/or political aspects of the society they live in. Items integrator groups at risk of social exclusion are intended to enable these people a minimum level of participation in the sociovital welfare of their society.

• Items considered integrators of groups at risk of social exclusion may be those produced by disabled people, immigrants, ethnic minorities, beggars and homeless, recent graduates, unemployed above fifty years, long-term unemployed, women, elderly, drug addicts, convicts, exconvicts and illiterate.

• Full information regarding the group they belong to must be defined in listing and/or the shop’s About page.

• These groups can be assisted by a social worker or similar when managing their FCH shop.

• Items that also donate all of part of their income to nonprofit organizations to organize literacy courses, workshops and/or training for groups at risk of social exclusion may also be included under Items that donate to charity if they meet the policies for those items.

All items in the Integrators of groups at risk of social exclusion category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies. Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Vegetarian and without animal experimentation items

Only those items that do not come from animals and do not experiment on animals may be considered Vegetarian on FairChanges.

All items in the Vegetarian and without animal experimentation category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Certified ecological, organic, biological items

Ecological, organic or biological items use natural resources optimally, without using genetic manipulation or synthetic chemical inputs. They seek in a sustainable and balanced way, to preserve the fertility of the soil and protect the environment. They may come from biodynamic farming, permaculture, natural farming, indigenous farming, family farming, peasant farming...

FairChanges only accepts in this category items with the official corresponding certification.

• The seller of these items is required to upload one or more certificates in effect and obtained in the official way for the item. It is not permitted to associate a certificate to an item to which the certificate doesn’t refer.

All items in the Ecological, Organic, Biological category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies. Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Certified fairtrade items

Fair Trade bases on dialogue, transparency, and respect, securing the rights of marginalized producers and workers and contributing to a sustainable development through greater equity in international trade.

FairChanges only accepts in this category items with the official corresponding certification.

• The seller of these items is required to upload one or more certificates in effect and obtained in the official way for the item. It is not permitted to associate a certificate to an item to which the certificate doesn’t refer.

All items in the Certified Fairtrade category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Charitable items

FairChanges enables members to participate in fundraising for charitable organizations and causes. Furthermore, in order to protect the FCH Community from unsavory people who may attempt to take advantage of good will, FairChanges has established some policies regarding charitable listings that use charitable fundraising as a promotional tool. Members participate in charitable fundraising at their own risk.

Sellers or members of their shops represent that any charitable fundraising complies with all applicable laws.

A seller who promotes that his/her FairChanges shop engages in charitable fundraising on behalf of a recognized tax-deductible charitable organization, must receive appropriate consent from the charitable organization.

The seller must include clear information about the organization and donation details, at least, in the listing.

Members must comply with all policies, including FCH Community and Conversations policies. Members must not send unsolicited donation requests.

A charitable shop involving multiple people must comply with all applicable Membership rules.

All items in the Charitable category must comply with all FairChanges’ policies, including the listing policies.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Custom items

Custom orders or customizable items may be listed on FairChanges taking into account the following terms:

"Custom order" listings must be listed for purchase with a set price.

The seller may use photographs of previous work and indicate options for customization (for example: color) in the listing.

If the seller offers different sizes or styles that affect the price, the seller must make a separate listing for each item.

The buyer must purchase the listing on FairChanges to have the item(s) created. Details about the customization must be discussed via FCH Conversations.

Buyers that supply their own materials to sellers for custom orders, do so at their own risk.

The final custom item must comply with all of FairChanges’ policies.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

The image in the item listing should be kept appropriate for general audiences. Mature content and/or profane language or images are only allowed in the second and third images of an item listing and the description text of a listing.

Pornography is prohibited on FairChanges.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Items sold with intermediation. In FairChanges the producer and the seller must be the same.

Items that generate severe damage and social injustice.

Items or listings that promote, support or glorify hatred toward or otherwise demean people based upon: race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, disability, or sexual orientation; including items or content that promote organizations with such views.

Items or listings that promote or support illegal activity or instruct others to engage in illegal activity.

Items or listings that promote, support or glorify acts of violence or harm towards self or others.

Even beyond these standards, FairChanges members are responsible for making important moral or ethical decisions regarding what they buy and sell on FairChanges.

FairChanges reserves the right to remove listings that we determine are not within the spirit of FairChanges.

Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Shops

FairChanges encourages all sellers to provide information about themselves and/or their techniques in their Profile. Shoppers are often interested in this information, as they are here specifically to buy items directly from the producer.

Please keep the following things in mind as you set up your shop and create listings:

An individual shop's policies must abide by FairChanges’ site-wide policies. FairChanges reserves the right to request that a seller provide policy information or require a seller to modify unreasonable policies at FairChanges’ discretion.

Do not make illegal use of photographs or written text, as this violates our Terms and Conditions.

You may not use mature, profane or racist language or images in the public areas of your shop (for example: username, avatar, Profile, shop announcement, shop About page, item titles, banner…).

You may not set a minimum purchase amount requirement in your shop.

You must pay your FairChanges due on time to avoid penalties, including but not limited to: suspension of listing privileges and/or account termination.

You may not engage in any activity to avoid FCH Fees ("fee avoidance"). This includes but is not limited to: completing a transaction off-FairChanges once it has been initiated on the site, listing an item below its intended purchase price or canceling a valid completed transaction.

You may not knowingly misrepresent your language. You are responsible for the information you provide on your shop and your listings.

Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Listings

To help users find your items, you must use the titles, descriptions, categories and subcategories in the clearest and most accurate way. All the info in the listings on FairChanges (photos, descriptions…) must be clear, accurate and detailed. Keep these policies in mind as you list and describe your items:

Listing texts and photos must accurately describe the item for sale so buyers know what is included in the purchase. Use only accurate and relevant terms that describe the specific article in your listing.

Select the most appropriate category and subcategory for your listing or you’ll lose potential buyers who can’t find your items (for example, don’t put a shirt in the coats category).

Use relevant synonyms in the descriptions (for example, a blouse can also be called shirt).

Only one-of-a-kind or unique items may be described in your listing as "original," "OOAK," "one of a kind," or other synonyms. Don’t use these words if your item is a reproduction or belongs to an edition of multiples.

You may not edit a listing's information to change it to an entirely different item. Please create a new listing instead.

You may not use FairChanges to direct shoppers to another online selling venue to purchase the same items as listed in your FairChanges shop, as this may constitute fee avoidance. This includes posting links/URLs or providing information sufficient to locate the other online venue(s).

Each listing must be available for purchase. You may not create a listing for an item that is not for sale or sold out. A listing may not be created for the sole purpose of sharing photographs or other information with the community. A listing may neither be created solely as an advertisement. This includes notices of sales or promotions in your shop. Such information may be included in other areas of your shop, such as: your Profile, your shop's About page, avatar, Shop Announcement and/or item descriptions.

Listing prices and shipping cost must be reasonable. You may price an item how you choose; however, a listing should not be created with an inaccurate price in order to keep it from selling.

Each individual item must have its own listing. You may create one listing with multiple quantities in stock only if you have multiples of an item. You may group items as a set into a single listing if the items are being sold and shipped together.

A listing must not be conditional upon the purchase of another listing in your shop (for example: indicating "this item may only be purchased along with another item in my shop" is not allowed). This includes listings for item upgrades, shipping upgrades and gift wrapping upgrades.

A free with purchase item may not be listed as a separate listing conditional upon the purchase of another item in your shop. The title and tags must not mention or describe the free with purchase item. Information about free with purchase items may only be included in the item description. A free with purchase item must not be featured in the first photograph of the listing. The listing price must only reflect the listed item.

Drop shipping is not permitted. All items must be shipped under the direct supervision of the seller.

Please mind that there specific rules that apply to listings on FairChanges according to the Criteria of the items (for example, some of them require official certifications). Some items are prohibited, and some items (for example: mature content) require special attention to comply with FairChanges’ policies.

Listings that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be reported for review (see Reporting abuses). Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Reporting abuses

In some areas on FairChanges (listings, shops, groups forums…) you’ll find a link to Report abuse. It’s an anonymous way to alert FairChanges of potential problems.

The process is completely confidential: the member whose listing, shop or forum is reported won’t know who flagged it, and you won’t receive any message, as FairChanges’ investigations will be handled privately.

Report abuse should be used to report any item listing, or shop request that violates any of FairChanges’ policies.

Do not Report abuse of a single violation multiple times, and do not flag without a reason. Abuse of the Report an abuse system by means of raising repeated, unjustified flags may result in the suspension and/or termination of your account.

Since Reporting abuses is a private matter, members should not discuss flags in any of FairChanges’ community spaces.

In most cases, FairChanges will work with a member privately to remedy the problem. If a seller does not respond to FairChanges’ communication or requests in a timely manner, the item may be removed, and the shop's selling privileges may be suspended and/or terminated. In some extreme cases, listings will be removed immediately. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Community

All registered members are part of the FairChanges Community. There are many ways to interact with others: Commenting on listings, FairCollections, Blog, Forums, Groups…

FairChanges’ role is to facilitate open discussion and support our community through constructive communication in an ethic environment.

We have no control over the universe, so please use common sense when sharing personal information in those public areas.

Here are some general rules for community conduct. Some spaces have additional rules.

Treat one another with respect. There is a real person with feelings behind each username.

Knowingly harassing, insulting or abusing other members is unacceptable.

The community spaces are not the appropriate channel to express disputes with others. Specific transactions and/or feedback should not be discussed in public community spaces. Instead, contact support@fairchanges.com privately if you need help with a transaction.

Discussing a specific member, shop or item (either by name or with identifiable hints) in a negative way is not allowed.

Do not publicly post another person's private information without their explicit consent (for example: email, conversations, letters, phone numbers, addresses, full names or business transactions).

Do not use the community spaces to facilitate or arrange any sort of transaction outside FairChanges.

If your account involves a person under the age of 18, you may not utilize the community features on FairChanges unless otherwise specified by FairChanges. (When using FairChanges, those under 18 must, at all times, have the permission and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age).

You may not use an undisclosed alternate account (also called a "sock puppet") in the community spaces.

Violating community policies may result in suspension of community or other privileges and/or account termination.

Forums

The FairChanges Forums are a perfect place to share your ideas and inspiration, learn from others, ask for support…

On the Forums you can read staff announcements, share questions and answers on how to use the site, discuss how to run an online business… Have fun interacting with FairChanges community members worldwide.

Follow the general rules for FairChanges community conduct when using the Forums,

Solicitation for direct donations or other fund-raising is not allowed in the Forums.

FairChanges does neither allow spam in the Forums. Unsolicited promotion or advertisement from representatives or affiliates of outside services, websites or other products is not allowed.

Start threads in the appropriate section of the Forums. Threads may be moved to a more appropriate section without notice.

Consider carefully what information you post in the Forums. In general, the Forums serve as a permanent record. In certain circumstances, at FairChanges’ sole discretion, FairChanges may remove content from the Forums.

FairChanges reserves the right to close any Forum thread for any reason. Violating community policies may result in suspension of community or other privileges and/or account termination.

Groups

FairChanges Groups are a community feature, based on mutual respect, that enables members to gather together. Groups may form around a skill, common interest, location, or just for fun. They are intended to facilitate relationships between members to network, promote FairChanges shops, meet people with similar interests or skills and accomplish the goals of each individual Group's charter.

A Group must have one creator and may additionally have co-creators. They uphold the group's charter and group membership.

Any member of the FairChanges Community over the age of 18 may start a group.

A Group may have a charter detailing membership requirements and expectations for the group. The creator of the Group is responsible for enforcing the group's charter. A group's charter must abide by all of FairChanges’ policies, including our Terms and Conditions and Copyright and Intellectual Property Policy.

Groups are responsible for their own actions, events, contests or promotions, both online and offline. Please use common sense when giving out personal information and meeting people online or offline.

FairChanges is not involved in groups’ finances and/or membership dues.

A Group may not be used to demonstrate or discuss disputes with others or with FairChanges.

Knowingly harassing, insulting or abusing other members or FCH staff is unacceptable behavior within FairChanges Groups.

A Group may not use mature, profane or racist language or images in the group's name, banner or logo.

A Group must not promote or glorify hatred, racial or religious intolerance, violence or instruct others to engage in illegal activity.

A Group may not be used for the sole purpose of redirecting traffic to another web location. FairChanges reserves the right to refuse links on any profile page or Group page for any reason. Unsolicited promotion or advertisement from representatives or affiliates of outside services, websites or other products is not allowed. If your company, organization, or institution wants to start a Group, you must get permission through FairChanges’ partnerships and sponsorships program by contacting groups@FairChanges.com.

Do not use the term "FairChanges", “FCH”, other FairChanges Trademarks or similar marks in a manner likely to cause confusion (see Trademark Policy).

Groups that do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be removed, and FairChanges reserves the right to remove a Group for any reason. Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in removal of the member from the Group, suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Group members

Membership requirements for Groups are determined by the creator of each individual Group and are described in the Group's charter. Members can join as many Groups as they desire, given the ability to meet the requirements of each Group.

You must be at least 18 years of age to participate in FairChanges Groups and other FairChanges community features.

Group members are responsible for their own actions within the Group.

Specific transactions and/or feedback should not be discussed in public spaces. Instead, talk privately with the members involved. Or contact support@fairchanges.com privately if you need further help with a transaction.

Do not publicly post any kind of personally identifiable information (for example: email, Conversations, letters, phone numbers, addresses, full names or business transactions).

FairChanges will not mediate disputes between Group members, and/or creators.

A Group's creator or co-creator may deny Group membership to anyone for any reason. Group creators and FairChanges reserve the right to remove a member from a Group. Members who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in removal of the member from the Group, suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Group creators

When creating a Group you become the Group creator. You can become a Group co-creator by being appointed by the creator of a pre-existing Group. As a creator/co-creator, it is your responsibility to uphold your Group's charter and to maintain order by fostering productive and respectful relationships between members.

Each Group can only have one creator.

Creators are responsible for facilitating their own Group's discussions and may remove content as appropriate. They are also responsible for monitoring appointed co-creators.

Group creators are responsible for approving or declining membership applications, if the Group is moderated, or appointing co-creators to do so.

A creator can transfer leadership responsibilities to another Group member. If there is no one else who can take over the role, the creator may delete the Group.

Only a Group creator is allowed to delete a Group. And it may only be deleted if it has no members.

If a creator becomes inactive, doesn’t respond to members for an extended amount of time, or otherwise abandons the responsibilities of being a Group creator, FairChanges may promote a Group co-creator or Group member to be a new creator. If a Group creator can’t resolve disputes, FairChanges may remove the creator or specific members, or even remove the Group entirely. Creators who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in account suspension and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

Group co-creators

Creators may appoint multiple co-creators to help administrate a Group. Co-creators should defer to Group creators for administrative decisions.

Group co-creators are responsible for approving or declining membership applications, if the Group is moderated.

Co-creators can remove a member from a Group, but they cannot appoint or remove other co-creators. Only the creator can do that.

If a co-creator is not fulfilling his or her duties, a Group creator may reassign their role within the Group or remove them from the Group entirely. Co-creators who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in account suspension and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay FairChanges for all unpaid fees per our Terms and Conditions.

The FairChanges blog

On The FairChanges Blog we share stories, videos, seller tips, shopping finds and much more from the FairChanges marketplace. FairChanges and members of the FairChanges community contribute posts on a variety of topics. You're welcome to pitch an article to us. We'll love to hear your story.

We encourage members to share their opinions, including disagreement with ideas presented on the blog. The tone should be civil and respectful, and the discussion remain on-topic.

Knowingly harassing, insulting or abusing other members is unacceptable in blog comments. Constructive criticism is fine, but being mean is not.

Mature, profane or intolerant language is not permitted in blog comments.

FairChanges does not allow spam in blog comments; for this reason, unsolicited promotion or advertisement from representatives or affiliates of outside services, websites or other products is not allowed.

The FairChanges Blog is published, in part, under this Creative Commons license that allows you to repost articles and videos. Give credit where credit is due, and always cite the author(s) of the article.

Link back to the original article; each page has a unique URL (web address).

While FairChanges has permission to use content that our members post on FairChanges.com, our members may retain certain intellectual property rights for their work. Please respect the artist's rights if contacted about use of material.

FairChanges reserves the right to remove blog comments. Posting inappropriate comments may result in suspension of privileges and/or account termination.

Changing

Changing shows the beating of Change on FairChanges. Every time a member adds a listing, buys an item, comments it, saves it as favorite, or shares it on Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest, it appears on this screen. It’s the Community life feed. If you buy an item, your name will not appear unless you opt in.

You may not use Changing or comments to reference a specific member, shop or item in a negative way, neither to knowingly harass nor abuse another member. They cannot contain profane or racist content.

Users who do not comply with FairChanges’ policies may be subject to review, which can result in account suspension and/or termination.

FairCollections

FairCollections are member-curated galleries that feature items produced by others and selected on a theme (ingredients for a recipe, seasonal fruits, white items for the home, natural cosmetics for a nude makeup look…). By handpicking favorite items or any item they like form different shops, members can create FairCollections, which at times, may be promoted by FairChanges in, for example, the home page. FairCollections are a fun way to show your style, to get and share inspiration, and to interact with others, as they allow commenting.

You may not use FairCollections or comments to reference a specific member, shop or item in a negative way, neither to knowingly harass nor abuse another member.

A FairCollection may not contain profane, racist or mature content. You cannot include mature content listings in your FairCollections, but you can save those listings under your favorites items and shops.

The curator of a FairCollection may delete comments on that list at their discretion. FairChanges reserves the right to remove FairCollections at any time. Abuse of FairCollections may result in suspension of privileges and/or account termination.